Return Policy

Online Purchases

If you are not satisfied with your order for any reason, we will accept the return of items that are in new, unused condition, with original tags attached and all original packaging and other components included, when accompanied by an original HMNS receipt/invoice.

Returned apparel items must not be washed, worn or altered. We do not accept returns of face masks, self-cracked geodes (sold as geodes by the pound) or any clearance and final sale items.

Credit for your returned item(s) will be refunded back to your account in the same form of payment used to purchase the item(s). You should receive an email confirming the completion of return processing.

You have two options for returning/exchanging merchandise purchased online: by mail or in store. All returns of online orders, whether by mail or in store, must be returned within 30 days from the day the order was shipped.

Option 1: By Mail

To return or exchange by mail, please follow these instructions:

Securely pack your merchandise, making sure to include all pages of the packing slip. Please try to use the original shipping box and materials. Refunds or returns will not be processed without the original invoice.

Return shipping charges will be at your expense. You should track and insure your return to verify receipt and to protect the shipment if lost or damaged in transit. If you elect not to track or insure the package for the full value, you will be responsible for any loss or damage to the product during shipping. Returns are processed within 7-10 days of receipt.

Items must be mailed back to:

The Houston Museum of Natural Science
Attn: Museum Store / Returns
5555 Hermann Park Drive
Houston, TX 77030

Option 2: In Store

You can return/exchange items purchased online in our store at 5555 Hermann Park Dr only. You will need to present your packing slip at the time of the return. All exchanges of online orders must occur within 30 days from the day the order was shipped. Exchanges in store are subject to inventory availability.

In-Store Purchases

If you are not satisfied with your purchase for any reason, HMNS will accept the item(s) for full refund or exchange within 30 days of original purchase.

Merchandise eligible for return or exchange must be:

  • New, unused, unwashed and in good condition;
  • Inclusive of all original hangtags, packaging, and components at the time of return or exchange; and
  • Accompanied by an original receipt.

Return And Exchange Restrictions

  • Items purchased at our Sugar Land and George Observatory locations must be returned/exchanged at the Hermann Park location (5555 Hermann Park Dr, Houston 77030)
  • HMNS does not accept returns or exchanges for merchandise purchased from other retailers
  • Merchandise not accompanied by an original receipt may be returned for a merchandise credit or exchanged for the value of the item's then-current in-store selling price. Un-receipted returns and exchanges are limited to current merchandise available in the store you visit.
  • Merchandise Credits are non-returnable, cannot be replaced if lost or stolen and cannot be redeemed for cash, except as required by law.

Final Sale Items

All face masks, self-cracked geodes (sold as geodes by the pound), Clearance and sale items are FINAL SALE and are not eligible for return or exchange.

Cancellations

To cancel an order once it has been placed, please call (713) 639-4665.

 HMNS reserves the right to modify its return and exchange policy at any time.